Dear Friends of "Dial Daily Bread":
The word “gospel” means “good news.” Paul says he is not ashamed of it, for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes (Rom. 1:16). We don’t want to confuse it with contention and petty arguing!
The Samaritans of the village of Sychar had it straight even before the Twelve understood it clearly, for they grasped the truth that Jesus is “the Savior of the world” (John 4:42), not just of those who believe. The disciples didn’t fully grasp that truth until after the resurrection of Jesus, not until Pentecost. But it’s still a truth that’s beyond the understanding of many, and therefore their ability to win souls to Christ is curtailed. There are empty pews in many churches for this reason. The return of Jesus is delayed because we still haven’t caught up with the Samaritans.
Paul understood, for he said that Christ is “the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe” (1 Tim. 4:10). Thus there are two aspects of salvation: one applies to “all men,” and the other applies only to those “who believe.” After Adam lost out as the head of the human race, Christ took over as the “last” or second Adam (1 Cor. 15:45), and He died for the world, not just for “the elect.” He “tasted death for every man,” not just for those who are baptized (cf. Heb. 2:9). The Father has planned for “all men” to be saved eternally (1 Tim. 2:3, 4). He has not “predestined” anyone to be lost, but all to be saved (Eph. 1:3, 4). Therefore it was before “the foundation of the world” that He has chosen “all men” to be “in Christ” just as surely as He gave “the birthright” to Esau. That gift was in no sense “provisional,” dependent on any good works that Esau might do; it was his by “right.” But he “despised” and “sold” it (Gen. 25:32-34). Now don’t despise and sell what has been given you as your birthright “in Christ.”
Be sure to check your e-mail for "Dial Daily Bread" again tomorrow.
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Robert J. Wieland's inspirational "Dial Daily Bread" phone message is available via e-mail to anyone who wishes to receive a daily portion of uplifting Good News. "Dial Daily Bread" is FREE. Due to travel or other circumstances, there may be intervals when "Dial Daily Bread" will not be sent.
